Celebrate July 19th in style.
Standing at the bar, shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers in a loud, bustling bar is now a rather unfamiliar feeling for us Brits. What was once a weekly activity we took for granted has become a distant (yet fond) memory, and we’re so ready for it to return to our routine. But it’s not just ordering at the bar that we’ve missed. It’s the lively atmosphere, the chitter-chatter of groups of friends catching up after a day at work, making new friends after one too many G&Ts on a Saturday night. And now the restrictions are finally set to lift in just one week’s time, we’re planning to celebrate in style and some of Manchester’s most lively and atmospheric bars. Read on for our faves…
1. Seven Bro7hers
A cosy beerhouse on Ancoats’ bustling Cutting Room Square, Seven Bro7hers has a proper pub vibe to it, making it the perfect spot to catch up with mates by the bar once restrictions are lifted. Pre-pandemic, guests would find groups of friends socialising on the comfy Chesterfield-style sofas by the rustic bar, dogs happily chilling with their owners, and plenty of people sitting at the bar testing out the impressive roster of Salford-brewed beers. Seven Bro7hers, 39 Blossom St, Ancoats, M4 5AF.
2. Terrace
Terrace is a venue that transforms from laid-back bevvies by day, to dancing and partying with friends by night. Boasting the Northern Quarter’s signature industrial charm, the stripped-back venue has plenty of space for dancing and hanging out with mates, with DJs frequently playing some of the best new (and old!) beats, rotating beers and plenty of cocktails to try out, too. Terrace, 43 Thomas St, M4 1NA.
3. Crazy Pedros NQ
A proper dive-style bar serving weekend vibes all round, Crazy Pedros NQ is our go-to for post-work drinks and weekend slices, with great music, a lively atmosphere, beer pong and so much more on offer. Pop in for pizza by the slice and huge NYC-style ‘pies’, or enjoy beers, mezcal, and refreshing cocktails. Crazy Pedros, Short St, M4 1AA.
4. The Blues Kitchen
City newcomer The Blues Kitchen has already established itself as a firm favourite among locals, offering a bustling atmosphere in its bar and restaurant, as well as a fantastic concert hall upstairs where guests can dance, sing and enjoy an impressive roster of live music. Expect blues, jazz, soul, bourbon and proper good barbecued grub – all within a New Orleans-esque setting. The Blues Kitchen, 13 Quay St, M3 3HN.
5. Albert’s Schloss
A venue that’s long been the home of live entertainment here in Manchester, Albert’s Schloss offers a schedule of daily shows, including grand slam piano nights, DJs, haus bands, promenaders dancing around the venue and more. Pair that with the bar’s rule that dancing on tables is absolutely allowed, you’re onto a pretty fun night out. Albert’s Schloss, 27 Peter St, M2 5QR.
6. The Foundry Project
The self-professed ‘happiest place in Manchester’ is one of the Northern Quarter’s liveliest bars, with both a basement bar and a bustling open bar overlooking the buzz of the city quarter. Expect great music bringing the feel-good party vibes, a diverse menu if you fancy a bite to eat, and tons of cocktails and spirits to sip on. The Foundry Project, Thomas St, M4 1BD.
7. YES
Consisting of four floors and an outdoor terrace of good tunes, live music, street food and tasty beers, YES is a one-stop destination for a good night out – particularly if you catch a live DJ or band while you’re there. Expect a lively buzz in the downstairs bar, tasty pizzas and vegan kebabs, rock n’ roll bands and late-night vibes all round. YES, 38 Charles St, M1 7DB.